Cordova & Fernós Internship Program

Cordova & Fernós Internship Program

Helping young Puerto Rican leaders shape a stronger future for the Island.

As a Puerto Rican college student, you have a tremendous opportunity to help lead your government to a stronger future. Work closely with your peers in the United States Congress, Federal Agencies and non-governmental media organizations in Washington, D.C. to learn about the legislative process and how government works.

In partnership with the Puerto Rican government and private sector companies, this program allows student interns to see first-hand the complex issues facing today’s political decision makers.

Eligibility

This is a highly selective program. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Be a student at the undergraduate or post-graduate level enrolled in a university in Puerto Rico with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.00.

Have a minimum of sixty (60) credits approved when applying to the internship.

Have good command of the English language both verbally and in writing.

Be enrolled as a full-time student when applying to the program.

If selected, participate in a formal interview in english with members of the Joint Commission of the Córdova & Fernós Program.

Program Components

During this 15-week program, you'll work full-time Monday through Thursday in a congressional internship doing work that supports the staff in that office. On Fridays you'll attend TWC programs and visit places like the Capitol, the Pentagon, the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, the World Bank, the Organization of American States or various embassies. You'll also attend lectures, conferences and workshops that explore issues like campaign funding, education, immigration, trade, soliciting federal funding, defense and international relations.

Program Cost

This is a fully-funded internship program, sponsored by the Puerto Rican government in partnership with private sector companies. Sponsorship covers the cost of the program and housing. You are responsible for airfare, living expenses and local transportation.

Housing and Living

The community you become a part of is one the best things about The Washington Center. You never know what will spark a conversation that turns a roommate from halfway around the globe to a lifelong friend. You might come for an internship, but you’ll be amazed by what you can learn from a late night burger run.

We don't like to brag, but our neighborhood, NoMa, is one of the coolest and 'most connected' neighborhoods in D.C. You'll be in the middle of it all with easy access wherever you need to go.

Housing

Most student interns share a 2-bedroom/2-bath apartment with three other students in our modern academic and residential building. We'll provide everything you need, most of what you'll want, and even some perks you might not have expected (like tips on where to find that burger at 2am).

Each apartment is fully furnished and includes:

a full dining set (pots, pans, dishes, silverware, coffee maker and toaster)

refrigerator

microwave

dishwasher

iron and ironing board

vacuum cleaner

mop and broom

washer and dryer

wi-fi and cable

What to Pack

Please be prepared to pack the following:

linens including twin-sized sheets, towels, a blanket/comforter and pillows

personal toiletries

government-issued ID card

at least three business professional outfits

notebook and pens

clothes hangers

Once you’ve arrived we recommend you purchase these additional items:

cleaning supplies

dishwasher and laundry detergent

toilet paper and paper towels

groceries

Due to limited storage we cannot accept packages in advance of your check-in date.

Student Services

We give you your space, but we don't leave you totally on your own. Our student services team and alumni mentors make sure you have the support you need, any time day or night. And our disability services staff ensures that every student has the tools they need to live comfortably, complete assignments and succeed in their work.

Academic Credit

You may be eligible to receive academic credit for your participation in this program. However, credits are determined and awarded by each university. TWC does not grant credit. You are responsible for arranging any academic credit through your college or university. You should discuss arrangements with you institution, prior to starting the program.

How to Apply

Applications for this program go through the Joint Commission of the Córdova & Fernós Program. Please apply here. For information about the selection process for this program, contact Francisco J. Reyes Caparros in San Juan at 787-721-8090 or info@cordovayfernos.com. You must include the application documents listed below to complete the application process.

If you're not quite ready to apply, fill out a Request for Information and a member of TWC's staff will reach out to you.

Dates and Deadlines

Check-In: January 24, 2018

Orientation:

In Puerto Rico: TBD

At TWC: January 25, 2018

Internship Begins: January 26, 2018

Internship Ends: May 4, 2018

Check-Out: May 5, 2018

Application Documents

You need to submit the following documents along with your application:

Original Birth Certificate

Certificate of Negative Criminal Record

Resumé in english

Official Transcript

Two Letters of Recommendation: One of these letters must be of an academic nature, such as a university professor. The other may be of a professional, personal or academic nature

Certification of English Proficiency: Letter from an English teacher or the Director of the English Department of your faculty, certifying your verbal and written ability of the English language

Academic Advisor Letter: must indicate the amount of credit that will be granted

Evidence of leadership, social service, or both. The evidence must be presented in writing, either by means of a certification or letter from the organization that provides it.

Written Essay in english (500 words, double-spaced on 8.5" x 11" white paper): focus on "How the Cordova and Fernós Internship will help you personally and professionally in relation to your area of studies."

Written Essay in english (75 words, double-spaced on 8.5" x 11" paper): describe where you would like to work and why? Mention activities you would like to participate in during the internship